I Tried 5 Ways to Make Money Online – Here’s What Actually Worked

When I first decided I wanted to make money online, I promised myself I’d try at least five different methods to see what really worked. I didn’t want to waste time on stuff that sounded good but didn’t deliver. I wanted real results. So I got to work testing things out, and after some time, I figured out what actually helped me earn money from home.

Here’s what I tried—and what worked best for me:

1. Affiliate Marketing ✅ (Works!)

I started by promoting products through Pinterest using affiliate links. I used the book “Choose the Right Product,” which gave me a list of high-paying affiliate programs and trending products. I used it to find what people were already buying and shared helpful pins linking to those products.

What helped the most: Having the right products and using Pinterest to drive traffic. No social media following or website needed.

2. Selling Digital Products ✅ (Works!)

After trying affiliate marketing, I decided to create my own digital products using Canva. I listed them on amazon and promoted them. It took a little more time to set up, but once the products were live, I started getting sales.

3. Freelancing ❌ (Didn’t Work for Me)

I tried offering writing and proofreading services on Fiverr and Upwork. While it’s definitely a legit way to earn money, I found it too competitive, and I didn’t get any clients in the beginning. I didn’t have reviews yet, so it was hard to stand out.

Why it didn’t work for me: Too much competition and not enough visibility when you’re just starting.

4. Selling Old Stuff Online ✅ (Quick Cash!)

This one surprised me. I sold a few old items around my house on Facebook Marketplace and eBay. It was quick and gave me a little cash boost, but it’s not something that keeps making money.

What helped the most: Clear photos, honest descriptions, and fair prices.

5. Survey Sites & Apps ❌ (Not Worth It)

I signed up for a few apps that promised money for taking surveys. Yes, I earned a few dollars, but it took way too long. I realized my time was better spent on things that had bigger earning potential.

Why it didn’t work for me: Too slow and not sustainable.

Final Thoughts

Out of all the methods I tried, affiliate marketing and selling digital products gave me the best results—and they’re both things I can continue to grow over time.

If you’re just getting started and not sure which method to try, I recommend starting with affiliate marketing or digital products. They’re beginner-friendly, don’t require a big investment, and have real potential to turn into passive income!